Photographic light diffuser

ABSTRACT

The invention to provide a light source enclosure which is compact, self-contained and easy to position and use in association with a light source. The light enclosure comprises a base adapted to be coupled to a light source for use. A frame structure is coupled to extend radially away from the base and includes cross frame members coupled to a slide member. A frame support member extends outwardly from the base and has a support rod associated therewith. The slide member is selectively engaged with the support rod to operatively position the frame structure. A flexible cover is positioned on the frame structure to define an enclosure for conditioning of light emitted by the light source.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a light diffuser for use withlight sources in photography and other applications. Diffused orindirect lighting is used in both still and motion picture type ofphotography or for achieving other visual effects. As an example,indirect and/or diffused lighting provides a “soft” illumination of asubject, and can be provided by means of directing light through one ormore diffusers or by indirect reflection. Generally, such indirectand/or diffused lighting are produced by light sources remote from thecamera or the like.

[0002] Based upon he foregoing, there have been attempts at providing anenclosure for a light source to provide indirect diffused lighting. Suchenclosures have been referred to as “soft boxes” or “glamour boxes”,referring to the diffused lighting produced thereby. The enclosures havebeen designed in a manner such as shown in FIG. 1, wherein a lightsource 10 is mounted on a tripod 12 for use. A soft box 14 is mounted inassociation with the light source 10 to provide an enclosure inconjunction with a diffusing panel 16 mounted in spaced apartrelationship to the light source 10 in the enclosure 14. Although such adevice may provide suitable lighting features, various deficiencies makeits use cumbersome. In known devices, a fabric covering 18 must bemanually assembled into its operative position using a plurality of ribs20 mounted to a support plate (not shown). The multiplicity of parts andlabor associated with construction of the enclosure 14 has made itdifficult for use. It thus would be desirable to provide a “soft box” orlight enclosure which is more easily used and handled.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Based upon the foregoing, it is an object of the invention toprovide a light source enclosure which is compact, self-contained andeasy to position and use in association with a light source.

[0004] It is a further object of the invention to provide a lightenclosure which allows lighting characteristics to be modified accordingto desired applications in a simplified manner.

[0005] In an embodiment of the invention, the light enclosure comprisesa base adapted to be coupled to a light source for use. A framestructure is coupled to extend radially away from the base and includescross frame members coupled to a slide member. A frame support memberextends outwardly from the base and has a support rod associatedtherewith. The slide member is selectively engaged with the support rodto operatively position the frame structure. A flexible cover ispositioned on the frame structure to define an enclosure forconditioning of light emitted by the light source. Other aspects andadvantages of the invention will become apparent upon a reading of thefollowing disclosure in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006]FIG. 1 is a prior art soft box shown in its operative position.

[0007]FIG. 2 is a light enclosure according to an embodiment of theinvention.

[0008]FIG. 3 is an alternate embodiment of the light enclosure accordingto the invention.

[0009]FIG. 4 shows a light enclosure according to the invention in acollapsed position ready for transport.

[0010]FIG. 5 is a somewhat schematic representation of the embodiment ofthe invention as shown in FIG. 2.

[0011]FIG. 6 is a view into the enclosure as shown in FIG. 5.

[0012]FIG. 7 is a plan view of a base according to an embodiment of theinvention.

[0013]FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the base as shown in FIG. 7.

[0014]FIG. 9 is a side view of a frame support member according to anembodiment of the invention.

[0015]FIGS. 10a-10 e represent alternate embodiments of a light sourceengaging member according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Referring to FIG. 2, the light enclosure 30 according to theinvention may be mounted in association with a light source 10 andtripod in a similar manner to that shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, thelight source 10 and light enclosure 30 may be hung from a ceilingmounting apparatus or any other suitable configuration as desired. Oneor more diffusing panels 32 may be positioned in opposing relationshipto the light source to diffuse light exiting the enclosure 30 throughits open end. More than one diffusing panel may be used to provide thedesired light conditioning. The enclosure can also be used as a largereflector when used without a diffuser panel. The large reflectorprovides a sifter, broader light than that typically provided by smallerprior art devices. Although the embodiment of FIG. 2 reflects a squareenclosure configuration, other enclosure configurations arecontemplated, such as shown in FIG. 3, representing an octagonalconfiguration, or other configurations such as rectangular or the like.In each of the embodiments according to the invention, the lightenclosure 30 is preferably designed to be collapsible such as that shownin FIG. 4.

[0017] With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the light enclosure 30 in anembodiment comprises a base generally designated 34, which supports aframe structure, including frame members 36 and cross frame members 38.Each of the frame members 36 and 38 may comprise dual ribs to providereinforcement and desired structural integrity. On the outer framemembers 36, a fabric covering 40 is provided, of a material similar tothat of an umbrella or the like. The outer fabric 40 is taught over theframe 36 when in the open configuration, providing easier handling ofthe enclosure 30. On the interior of the fabric material 40, a lightreflective and/or colored material may be provided, which may be of anydesired configuration to produce desired light reflective orconditioning characteristics. In its open configuration, the framemembers 36 extend radially away from the base 34, such that when in anextended position, they will retain the fabric covering 40 in an openconfiguration as shown in FIG. 5. The cross frame members 38 are coupledto respective outer frame members 36 and a slide member 42. The slidemember 42 is adapted to engage a support rod 46 associated with a framesupport member 44. The frame support member 44 extends outwardly fromthe base 34 to engage cross frame members in spaced apart relation tothe base 34. In this manner, the frame support member 44 creates a spacebetween the base 34 and cross frame members 38 which is adapted toaccept the light source coupled to the base 34 while supporting thecross frame members 38 in the operative position.

[0018] The frame members 36 are pivotably secured to the base 34, andare connected to the fabric covering 40 at their distal end. The crossframe members 38 are pivotably connected to the outer frame members 36and slide member 42, such that the entire assembly can be collapsed to aposition such as shown in FIG. 4. In the operative position, the slidemember 42 is engaged on the support rod 46, as for example in a mannersimilar to an umbrella, by means of a stop member 48. The cross framemembers 38 in this position will fully extend the frame members 36 tothe open position in conjunction with the fabric covering 40 to define asubstantially parabolically shaped structure. When in the openconfiguration, the enclosure 30 is self-supporting and rigid. Aspreviously mentioned, different frame structures can result in differentconfigurations of the enclosure, while still providing a collapsibleframe as desired.

[0019] The fabric covering 40 may include a light reflective material,such as aluminum foil, gold foil, colored fabric, black or white fabricor the like, disposed on the interior surface 50 of the fabric covering,over at least a portion thereof. Alternatively, the fabric covering 40may be constructed of the desired reflective and/or colored material ifdesired. There may also be provided hook and loop fasteners 52, or othersuitable fasteners, disposed at locations around the interior surface50, for securing a light diffusing member 32 across at least a portionof its open end, such as in the position shown in FIG. 5. The lightdiffusing member 32 may be a translucent material to condition lightpassing therethrough, or may be of a colored material as desired.Additional light diffusing members 32 may be provided at differentlocations within the enclosure 30, such as shown at fastening tabs 52positioned intermediate the outer location of diffuser 32 as shown inthe figure, or at any other desired location, such as for example inassociation with the frame support member and/or frame structure.Further, modifying the amount and direction of diffusion for aparticular situation or environment, wherein modifying the reflectivecharacteristics of the internal surface 50 or of the diffuser 32 mayprovide the proper lighting effect. It should be recognized that uponmounting of the base 34 in association with a light source, lightemitted from a light source will be reflected and emitted through thediffuser 32 in the desired manner. As previously mentioned, theenclosure 30 can also be used without a diffuser as a large reflector.However regardless of whether used as a diffuser or a reflector, theenclosure 30 will prevent direct light from going right out of theenclosure 30. As an integral unit, the enclosure 30 is easily collapsedfor transport and storage, while providing easy mounting to a lightsource and opening to the position as shown in FIG. 5 for use.

[0020] As seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, the base 34 may be constructed as aplate member 54. To allow proper operation of the frame structure, thebase plate 54 is preferably round in configuration, which providesbalanced construction and load distribution in the frame structure. Theplate 54 may have an outer flange 56, which is tapered away from theplane of the plate as shown in FIG. 8. The first end of the framemembers 36 are secured in position adjacent the outer flange 56 as shownin FIG. 8. The plate 54 further has a hole 58 through the center foraccommodating a light source in conjunction with a mounting system, suchas a mounting plate as will be described hereinafter. In the embodimentshown, to accommodate a mounting plate, the base plate 54 includes arecessed mounting flange 60 adjacent the hole 58 to receive a mountingplate (not shown). Returning to FIG. 5, a mounting plate 70 is shown inits operative position relative to the base plate 54. Fasteners 72 maybe used to selectively secure the mounting plate 70 within the recessedmounting flange 60, and may be of any suitable type. As merely anexample, fastener 72 may extend in overlapping relationship relative tothe recessed flange 60, such that upon positioning of the mounting plate70, the fasteners will retain plate 70 in the proper position upontightening. As also seen in FIG. 7, the frame members 36 may be securedby suitable frame fasteners 74. The base plate 54 may also include framesupport member mounting holes 76 for mounting of the support member 44thereto as shown in FIG. 5. It should also be recognized that otherfastening or connection systems may be used or structures may beintegrated with one as desired.

[0021] In FIG. 9, the frame support member 44 is shown to includesupport rod 46 having a retractable stop member 48 associated therewith.The distal end 78 of support rod 46 is preferably tapered to accommodatepositioning the slide member 42 thereover as previously described. Thesupport rod 46 is provided on a hub 80, to which are connected at leastthree leg members 82. The leg members 82 form a spider-like assemblywhich positions the hub member 80 in spaced apart relationship to thebase 34 on which the frame support 44 is mounted or made integral with.The hub 80 is also disposed along the center line of the apparatusextending through the center of hole 58 in mounting plate 54 as anexample. The hub 80 and support rod 46 provide selective connection tothe slide member 42 associated with the frame assembly along this axis.The positioning of hub 80 provides for proper operation of the frameassembly when slide member 42 is disposed on the support rod 46 in itslocked position against hub 80 by means of cross frame members 38forcing outer frame members 36 into the desired shape. The spider-likeconfiguration of the frame support member 44 also accommodatespositioning of the light source through hole 58 in base plate 54 intoits operative position within the formed enclosure. The at least threeleg members 82 are configured to provide a secure support for hub member80 in a balanced configuration to avoid possible twisting of the frameassembly when mounted in association therewith. As shown in thisembodiment, three leg members 82 may be configured to have firstportions 84 which extend radially in the plane of hub 80, atapproximately 60° angular spacing. The leg members 82 then have secondportions 86 extending substantially orthogonally to first portions 84 toprovide the spaced apart positioning of hub 80 relative to the baseplate 54. The frame support 44 may alternatively be configured to beintegral with the base 34 in a suitable manner if desired, and othersuitable leg configurations are contemplated.

[0022] As the light enclosure according to the invention may be usedwith a variety of light sources, it is desirable to provide simple andeffective mounting configurations for various types of lights, which areeasily selected for use with the enclosure 30. A separate mounting plate70 as previously mentioned may thus be used to afford selection ofvarious mounting plates for particular types of lights. A variety ofmounting plates 70 which may be suitable for particular types of lightsare shown in FIGS. 10a-10 e, each providing quick connection to aparticular light, and being easily positioned in association with baseplate 54 within the mounting recess portion 60 of plate 54 as previouslydescribed. As seen in FIG. 10, several embodiments of mounting plates 70may comprise an outwardly extending flange portion 90 adapted to engagea portion of a light source for mounting. Alternatively, mounting tabs92 may be provided for selective support in association with a portionof a light source. Each of the embodiments indicate an aperture 94through plate 70 to introduce the light into the enclosure 30, but suchaperture may be of any desired configuration for accommodating aparticular light source.

[0023] Having described embodiments of the invention in detail, itshould be understood that various modifications and substitutions arecontemplated, and can be made according to the invention withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed.

What is claimed is:
 1. A light enclosure comprising, a base adapted tobe coupled to a light source, a frame structure coupled to the base, theframe structure extending radially away from the base and includingcross frame members coupled to a slide member, wherein the framestructure is moveable between a collapsed position and an operativeposition, a frame support member extending outwardly from the base andhaving a support rod associated therewith, wherein the slide member isselectively engaged with the support rod to position the frame structurein the operative position, and a flexible cover positioned on the framestructure to define an enclosure for conditioning of light emitted bythe light source.
 2. The enclosure according to claim 1, wherein theframe support member comprises a hub member having the support rodthereon, and a plurality of leg members positioning the hub in spacedrelationship relative to the base.
 3. The enclosure according to claim2, wherein the base includes a hole to accommodate a light source,defining a central axis therethrough, wherein the hub member ispositioned along this axis.
 4. The enclosure according to claim 2,wherein at least three leg members are provided.
 5. The enclosureaccording to claim 2, wherein the leg members comprise first portionsextending radially from the hub, and second portions extendingsubstantially orthogonally to the first portions.
 6. The enclosureaccording to claim 2, wherein the hub and plurality of leg members forma spider-like configuration.
 7. The enclosure according to claim 1,wherein the support rod has a tapered distal end.
 8. The enclosureaccording to claim 1, wherein the frame structure comprises outer framemembers extending radially from the base and connected to the flexiblecover at their distal end, and the cross frame members being pivotallycoupled at a mid portion of the outer frame members and extendinginwardly to the slide member.
 9. The enclosure according to claim 8,wherein the outer frame members and cross frame members comprise atleast two rib members.
 10. The enclosure according to claim 1, whereinthe flexible cover comprises a reflective material over at least aportion of the interior surface thereof.
 11. The enclosure according toclaim 1, wherein the flexible cover has at least one different colorsection over at least a portion of the interior surface thereof.
 12. Theenclosure according to claim 1, wherein the flexible cover comprisesattachment mechanisms for selected attachment of at least one diffuserover at least a portion of the interior space of the enclosure.
 13. Theenclosure according to claim 1, wherein the support rod furthercomprises a locking member for selective locking of the slide membertherewith.
 14. The enclosure according to claim 1, wherein at least onediffusing member is positioned within the enclosure for conditioning oflight directed therefrom.